The PTU-D48 range of computer controlled pan-tilt units from Directed Perception provide rugged and compact design for a range of mounting options for internal and external use.

Directed Perception has announced the general availability of its PTU-D48 family of computer controlled pan-tilt units designed for high speed, accurate positioning of cameras, thermal imagers, lasers, antennas, and other payloads to 15 lbs. The extremely rugged, compact design has flexible mounting options for single or multiple payloads and is suitable for fixed and mobile applications (air, ground, sea) in industrial and military markets. The units are now shipping to customers worldwide for utilization in a variety of communications, surveillance, defence, and R&D applications.

The integrated design of the PTU-D48 provides a complete turn-key positioning solution for fast, accurate, dynamic, computer-controlled positioning of pan and tilt through a wide range of motion. Sensor and communications systems designers can save months of product development time by using the PTU-D48 as a complete, drop-in positioning solution. The accuracy, high speeds, and dynamic control capabilities of the PTU-D48 enable applications which were previously difficult or impossible to implement in a cost-effective manner.

In the past, high-performance pan-tilt systems have been custom-designed for a specific application. This drives up costs, and reduces availability. Military and industrial customers today demand proven COTS solutions that can be put to work immediately, and without large engineering costs. The PTU-D48 meets that need.

The PTU-D48 includes a fully-integrated controller with digital commands for fine-grained control of speed, acceleration, position limits, and power modes. Unit can be commanded in terms of either position or velocity and allows on-the-fly command changes to support dynamic tracking applications. Both RS-232 and RS-485 interfaces are built-in and an Ethernet option is available. Control software interfaces available include a LabView driver and a C source-code API for use with embedded or desktop CPUs.

The PTU-D48 is constructed of anodised machined high-grade aluminium and provides a sleek, integrated package with flexible payload and pan-tilt mounting options. Packaging features include:.

The PTU-D48 has a number of design features to support rapid customization to meet specific OEM requirements. Customisation options include changes in: payload connectors/cabling, mounting brackets, control protocols, and network interfaces.